Old Town Shymkent
2200 years of history
Old Town Shymkent boasts a rich history spanning 2200 years, yet for many years, a significant hill at its center remained overlooked by both authorities and locals. Unbeknownst to many, this mound concealed an ancient settlement, complete with a citadel.
Archaeologists unearthed ruins of the citadel, fortress walls, ramparts, shakhristan (a part of a town located outside a citadel), and remnants of towers. Excavations, reaching depths of 14 meters, revealed ceramic artifacts dating back to the late 3rd and early 2nd centuries BC, when the semi-nomadic Kangju tribes, descendants of the Scythians, inhabited the region. After the Kangju era, the Karakhanids, Timurids, and Kokands left their imprint on Shymkent. Notably, a unique ossuary and a grand hall for religious gatherings were also unearthed.
Debates persist among historians regarding the age of Shymkent, but in 2019, UNESCO officially acknowledged its 2200-year history, granting the city the prestigious title of "the most ancient city of Kazakhstan."
An open-air museum
Despite ongoing excavations since the mid-20th century, the Old Town faced encroachment through illegal constructions such as markets, unauthorized buildings, and private residences due to its prime location in the city center. Fortunately, archaeologists, scientists, journalists, local historians, and public figures, rallied to preserve this unique site. Their efforts led to the restoration of the Old Town's historical and cultural essence, transforming it into an open-air museum.
While the ancient mudbrick buildings did not endure the test of time, the Koshkar-Ata Mosque and the House of the District Chief from the 19th century now stand as a testament to the city's architectural heritage. The ongoing restoration efforts have revitalized the Old Town, reintroducing historical street layouts, erecting towers, and restoring the original appearance of certain structures. Notably, the ShymQala historical and cultural complex, also known as ShymQala Ethnic Village, represents a new addition to the Old Town's evolving narrative.
How to get there?
The Sayakhat bus station, a bustling transportation hub that welcomes buses from various cities in Kazakhstan, is situated just 450 meters (490 yd) away from the Old Town. Within Shymkent, an array of buses, including No. 6, 18, 23, 27, 32, 57, 60, 84, 96, and 122, provide convenient access to the Old Town. Disembark at the Magnum bus stop on Volodarsky Street, and the final leg of the journey entails a 500-meter walk to reach your destination.
Other tourist attractions near the Old Town:
- Independence Park
- Ordabasy Square
- Jami Mosque
- Central Park
- Shymkent Plaza Shopping Mall
- Russian Drama Theater
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Shymkent, the third-largest city in Kazakhstan, boasts a rich, extensive history. It is one of the oldest cities in the region, having emerged as a vital hub along the Silk Road caravan routes.